After candidates' introductions, Cooper turned to Clinton and
confronted her over perceived shifts in positions on immigration,
same-sex marriage, and the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade
agreement.

"Plenty of politicians evolve on issues, but even some
Democrats believe you change your positions based on political
expediency," he said.

"Will you say anything to get elected?"

"Actually, I have been very consistent over the
course of my entire life. I have always fought for the same
values and principles," she said. "But like most human beings,
including those of us who run for office, I do absorb new
information. I do look at what's happening in the
world."

That answer didn't satisfy Cooper, who then questioned Clinton
over whether she identified as a "progressive" or a "moderate"
— she has used both descriptions on the campaign trail.

"Secretary Clinton though, with all due respect, the
question's really about political expediency. Just in July, New
Hampshire, you told a crowd quote, 'You'd take a backseat to no
one when it comes to progressive values.' Last month, in Ohio,
you said you'd plead guilty to quote 'being kind of moderate
and center.' Do you change your political identity based on who
you're talking to?" Cooper said.

"No, I think that like most people that I know, I have a
range of views but they are rooted in my values and my
experience. I don't take a backseat to anyone when it comes to
progressive experience and progressive commitment," Clinton
retorted.

Cooper demurred.

Clinton rejected Cooper's characterization.

"Actually, I have been very consistent over the
course of my entire life. I have always fought for the same
values and principles," she said. "But like most human beings,
including those of us who run for office, I do absorb new
information. I do look at what's happening in the
world."

That answer didn't satisfy Cooper, who then questioned Clinton
over whether she identified as a "progressive" or a "moderate"
— she has used both descriptions on the campaign trail.

"Secretary Clinton though, with all due respect, the
question's really about political expediency. Just in July, New
Hampshire, you told a crowd quote, 'You'd take a backseat to no
one when it comes to progressive values.' Last month, in Ohio,
you said you'd plead guilty to quote 'being kind of moderate
and center.' Do you change your political identity based on who
you're talking to?" Cooper said.

"No, I think that like most people that I know, I have a
range of views but they are rooted in my values and my
experience. I don't take a backseat to anyone when it comes to
progressive experience and progressive commitment," Clinton
retorted.

Cooper demurred.

"Just for the record, are you a progressive or are
you a moderate?" he said.

"I'm a progressive but I'm a progressive who likes to get
things done," Clinton said. "And I know how to find common
ground and I know how to stand my ground."